Belle Chasse woman killed in traffic crash

A 51-year-old Belle Chasse woman was killed Friday afternoon when she turned her SUV into the path of an 18-wheeler on Louisiana 23 in Belle Chasse, State Police said. Joanne Meehan was driving a 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee north on Louisiana 23 when she attempted to make a left turn onto Cedar Lane.

The SUV was struck by a 1991 Kenwood truck driven by Dexter Irvin of New Orleans.

Meehan, who was not wearing a seat belt, was dead at the scene.

Irvin, who also was not wearing a seat belt, was taken to University Hospital with moderate injuries.

State Police said speed and alcohol impairment were not contributing factors in the crash, though routine toxicology test are pending.